LAGUNA HILLS, Calif., Sept. 9, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Trinity Pet Hospital in Laguna Hills, CA is reminding pet owners about the importance of regular animal dentistry to reduce the risk for periodontal disease. Routine exams and cleaning helps prevent the buildup of plaque along a pet's gum line. Without regular cleanings, plaque can push away the gums, creating pockets susceptible to bacterial infections. If this infection enters the bloodstream, serious harm may occur to internal organs. The animal hospital is educating pet owners about the importance of routine cleanings in conjunction with a pet's annual physical exam.
Just like humans, pets need regular dental care, too. That's the message being delivered by Orange County veterinarian Dr. Maged Kerolos. The vet is urging Irvine, Mission Viejo and San Clemente pet owners to schedule a pet dental cleaning at the same time that they schedule a wellness exam.
Dr. Kerolos says that many pet owners fail to realize just how important regular dental cleaning truly is to a pet's overall health. "Periodontal disease is a serious condition that can cause painful swelling and bleeding of the gums, as well as bacterial infections," said Dr. Kerolos. "The best way to prevent periodontal disease is through proactive dental care. Once the disease develops, it can be incredibly painful for pets and expensive for pet owners to treat."
The Orange County veterinarian offers comprehensive animal dentistry services, including cleanings and dental exams. During a dental exam, the vet may use anesthesia to help a pet relax. The veterinary team scrapes plaque away from the gum line and then polishes the teeth. Dr. Kerolos says that a smooth surface helps prevent the buildup of bacteria.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. This occurs when tartar begins to harden along the gum line. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent gingivitis and even reverse this condition.
"Proactive care is always preferable to reactive care," said Dr. Kerolos. "While our animal hospital is fully equipped for dental surgery and tooth extraction, whenever possible we prefer to prevent these interventions. An annual cleaning and regular, at-home brushing will keep a pet's teeth clean and his gum line healthy."
Dr. Kerolos recommends that pet owners regularly brush their pets' teeth, at least once per week. While pets may initially resist the toothbrush, the vet says that pet owners should try to keep consistent.
"If a pet is anxious, try putting a small dab of toothpaste on a finger," said Dr. Kerolos. "Then allow the pet to first familiarize himself with the sensation of your fingers rubbing his gums."
Dental chews and some toys can also act as natural 'floss,' helping to keep a pet's teeth free from food leftovers. Pet owners can learn more pet dental care tips by visiting the Orange County animal hospital's website, http://lagunapetvet.com.